In
their own idle comments and petty jealousies arising from the
resemblances before them, Lady Greville was forgotten.
"While I was deliberating the following morning, in what manner I
could with delicacy interrogate Theresa on the extraordinary scene I
had witnessed, I was surprised by her sudden but firm declaration
that she could not, _would not_ longer remain in the royal suite, and
she concluded by imploring me on her knees, as I valued her peace of
mind, her health, her salvation, to remove her instantly to Silsea.
'I have obtained her Majesty's private sanction,' said she, shewing
me a billet in the hand-writing of the queen, 'and it only remains
for you publicly to give in our resignation.' The letter was written
in French, and contained the following words: 'Go, my beloved
Theresa--dearly as I prize your society, I feel that our mutual
happiness can only be ensured by the retirement you so prudently
meditate. May it be a consolation to you to reflect that you must
ever be remembered with respect and gratitude by,
'Your affectionate friend.'
"The terms of this billet surprised me, and I began to request an
explanation, when Theresa interrupted me by saying hastily, 'Do not
question me, for I cannot at present open my mind to you--but satisfy
yourself that when I linked my fate to yours in the sight of God and
man, your honour and happiness became precious to me as my own; and
may He desert me in my hour of need, if in aught I fail to consult
your reputation and peace of mind.
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